How to care for metal-plastic window fittings

One of the key elements of a metal—plastic window is fittings. The hardware mechanism is installed on the window during its assembly and is responsible for:

• Fixing the sash in the closed position
• Pressing the sash against the frame with a certain (adjustable) force
• Opening the window in rotary and folding mode
• Additional functions — micro-slit ventilation, step-by-step ventilation, etc.

Thus, almost all the properties of the window depend on the fittings — heat and sound insulation, comfort in use, the ability to control the microclimate, etc.

Manufacturers of window systems design them in such a way that the fittings remain operational even under intensive operation in adverse conditions. But this does not mean that the fittings do not need to be taken care of. On the contrary, regular maintenance will increase the comfort of window operation and prolong the service life of the mechanism.

Why is it so important to take care of the fittings?

Prevention and periodic care are necessary for any system — and accessories will not be an exception. Why do you need to pay attention to the care of the hardware mechanism of a plastic window?

• The first reason is dust. Even when the sash is in the closed position, dust can penetrate into the mechanism and settle on its surface. The lubricant, which is designed to protect the metal from corrosion and reduce friction, exacerbates the problem. The dust sticks to the lubricant layer and accumulates quickly, forming a dense coating.
• The second reason is friction. Even with the perfect adjustment of the mechanism, the rubbing parts are still present, and lubrication solves the problem only partially. The larger the size of the sash, the more dust accumulates on the parts, the stronger the friction will be. With an increase in friction, the force that is needed for the operation of the hardware mechanism increases. In addition, friction contributes to the rapid "development" of lubrication, after which the wear of metal parts is repeatedly accelerated.

One of the ways to solve problems is to regularly adjust the fittings: the more precisely the mechanism is configured, the less dust will penetrate inside and the less friction there will be. But, as we noted above, even with a perfect fit and adjustment of all parts, it will not be possible to completely get rid of dust and friction.

Cleaning the mechanism from dust and dirt

Cleaning and lubrication are the two main procedures that are carried out when caring for a metal—plastic window. Moreover, they need to be carried out only together. If you lubricate the fittings without removing dust and dirt, the lubricant will quickly turn into a dense substance that will only interfere with the normal operation of the mechanism.

Therefore, you need to start caring with cleaning the accessories:

• We open the sash and clean the surfaces from dust and debris.
• Using a brush, we carry out a thorough cleaning of the hardware mechanism.
• Using a toothpick or a cotton swab, we remove dust from recesses or other hard-to-reach places.
• Remove the remaining dirt with a damp cloth, and then wipe the accessories dry.

Advice! Clean more often — and then the dust will simply not accumulate. So the next procedure will take you only a couple of minutes.

Lubrication: means and technology

To lubricate the fittings, it is very important to choose the right composition. It is best to use a means to care for window fittings, but a silicone—based lubricant (fishing, hygienic) or mineral oil with a minimum of impurities is also suitable (ideally, a lubricant for sewing machines).

Cannot be used:

• Compositions containing solvents or abrasives
• Vegetable oil (it thickens quickly)
• Vaseline
• Water-based lubricants (dry very quickly)

If you use such compositions, the problem will worsen: the fittings will start to work worse due to the appearance of a thick crust from a mixture of oil and dust. In addition, there is a risk of corrosion due to the destruction of the protective coating on the metal.

The lubrication process is very simple:

• First, we remove the decorative overlays that cover the hinges. We apply 1-2 drops of oil to each loop.
• Approximately the same amount is added to the lubrication holes on the hardware strapping — they are usually marked with an oilcan icon.
• To distribute the lubricant through the mechanism, open and close the window several times.
• The protruding remnants of oil are carefully wiped with a napkin.

If the window is adjusted correctly, and we carefully removed the dust before lubrication, then the hardware mechanism will work smoothly and noiselessly.

How often do I need to clean and lubricate the fittings?

The frequency of maintenance of the hardware mechanism depends on a number of conditions. It is usually recommended to carry out all procedures at least twice a year — in autumn and spring. This is enough to ensure that the fittings work without complaints during the next season.

However, there are a number of factors that affect the frequency of lubrication and cleaning. You need to take care of the window more often if:

• There is a large amount of dust in the air (the climate of the region, a nearby highway or a construction site).
• The window has to be adjusted more often than usual (more friction means more lubricant consumption).
• Large heavy sashes are installed on the window.

In any case, if there is a possibility of increased friction or the accumulation of a large volume of dust, excessive cleaning with lubrication will not harm the mechanism.

Regular window care takes very little time — and neither complicated tools nor expensive materials are needed to carry it out. At the same time, by regularly taking care of the fittings, you can at least double its service life, as well as increase comfort when using all the functions of the window. 

You can order a high-quality professional installation of metal-plastic windows by following the link